Temple's Pierce to enter NFL draft

Temple running back Bernard Pierce will not return for his senior season and will declare for the NFL draft.

Pierce told the Associated Press his decision late Thursday night.

Helping to turn the Owls from one of the worst programs in college football into a consistent bowl team, Pierce rushed for 3,570 yards over his three-year career with a school-record 54 touchdowns. He rushed for 100 yards on 25 carries and two touchdowns in Temple's 37-15 New Mexico Bowl victory over Wyoming in December.

Pierce said he was leaving because he has accomplished all he wanted at Temple. He said he would train in Atlanta and intends to return to Temple to complete his degree.